The first-ever bar from music producer extraordinaire Quincy Jones, Q’s Bar resides inside one the most opulent locations in Dubai – the Palazzo Versace hotel.

Inside, everything is black, even the walls are covered in black leather. The only lights illuminating the darkness are over at the bar or shining on the acts on stage. And that stage takes up a lot of the space – Quincy Jones is behind this venue, after all.

There are clusters of small tables by the stage, with armchairs that swivel around so that you won’t miss any of the performances. Sofas line the walls and high stools take their place at the bar.

Music comes in three chunks each evening by an ever-changing roster of up-and-coming artists, hand-picked by Jones himself to play at the bar. Award-winning jazz instrumentalist Ollie Howell is the current resident musician on the bill, performing live every night until Saturday December 31. It’s a welcome change to the house music playing in most bars across the city on most nights of the week.

On the menu are some bespoke mixed drinks, some of which are named after Jones’ works, from Thriller to The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. They all cost around Dhs100, and be warned, you can’t just stop by for one drink (unless you go for the most expensive on the menu), as there’s a minimum spend of Dhs250 per person.

Q’s Bar has a relaxed, chilled-out feel to it, but it’s not the kind of place you can go to for a catch-up with pals or a deep and meaningful conversation. It is, however, the place to visit if all you want to do is just sit back and enjoy the music.

The bottom line Pricey, but worth it for the quality jazz.
Q’s Bar and Lounge